The Government of India informed Parliament that 2,834 posts remain vacant across the IAS, IPS, and Indian Forest Service (IFoS) cadres. With a sanctioned strength of 15,169, this represents an 18.7% vacancy rate. The largest gap is in the IAS, with 1,300 unfilled positions, raising concerns about governance and efficiency.
India’s top three All India Services are facing a significant staffing crisis. According to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha, as of January 1, 2025, there are 2,834 vacancies across the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFoS).
The IAS has the highest shortfall, with 1,300 vacancies out of a sanctioned strength of 6,877. The IPS reports 505 vacancies, while the IFoS faces a shortage of 1,029 officers. Despite annual recruitment through the UPSC Civil Services Examination, the gaps persist, raising concerns about administrative capacity and law enforcement efficiency.
Officials note that states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra have some of the largest shortfalls, impacting governance and service delivery.
Major Takeaways
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Total vacancies: 2,834 across IAS, IPS, and IFoS
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Vacancy rate: 18.7% of sanctioned strength (15,169)
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IAS shortfall: 1,300 positions unfilled
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IPS shortfall: 505 positions vacant
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IFoS shortfall: 1,029 officers needed
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States most affected: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra
Conclusion
The shortage of officers in India’s premier civil services highlights an urgent need for enhanced recruitment and retention strategies. With nearly one-fifth of sanctioned posts lying vacant, the government faces mounting pressure to strengthen administrative efficiency, law enforcement, and environmental governance.
Sources: India Today, NDTV Profit, The Economic Times